As of 2017, the monastery is home to 15 inhabitants. The symbol of the monastery is the bee, representing diligence, persistence, vigilance, and purity.
The buildings of the monastic complex date from various epochs. At the centre is the temple. Surrounding it are multiple structures, such as the abbot's house, the cathedral room, the monks' cells, a library, a museum, reception rooms, etc. At the centre is a large paved courtyard with a well. Initially, the temple and the other monastery buildings were built of wood, a material this area does not lack, as the summit of Kikkos Mountain is not far from the Paphos forest.
Both the mosaics and frescoes that adorn the monastery were created in 1991-1993 by Cypriot icon painters, the Kepola brothers, and other masters from Greece and Romania.
Your day begins with a serene visit to the historic Kykkos Monastery, where the ornate decorations and tranquil atmosphere offer a peek into Cyprus's rich ecclesiastical tradition. From there, you journey to the mountain tomb of Makarios III, a place marked by solemnity and historical significance, boasting panoramic views of the island. The next leg of your trip involves traversing the medieval Venetian bridges over the Diorios River, where the impressive architecture harkens back to an era of grandeur and rich cultural exchange. As the sun sets, you find yourself in the charming village of Lofou, walking down its cobblestone streets, surrounded by traditional stone houses that seem to whisper tales from the past. Here in Lofou, you end the day with a sense of fulfilment, as if you've truly experienced the very heart and soul of Cyprus.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
